Welcome to Miami Beach

Miami Beach is one of the top vacation destinations in the country for many reasons. It’s balmy year-round weather and expansive beaches draw thousands of visitors every year. Combine those with endless shopping, a hopping nightlife, and the city’s fusion of American and Cuban culture, and you’ve got a fantastic city that’s waiting for you!

Miami Beach itself doesn’t have any airports, but the Miami area is home to one international airport, two reliever airports, and two general aviation airports.

Miami International Airport.

This bustling airport lies just 8 miles from downtown Miami and is the main airport for the Miami area. It rests in an unincorporated area in Miami-Dade County that’s part of the Miami metropolitan area. This hub is surrounded by Miami, Doral, Miami Springs, Hialeah, and Virginia Gardens, Florida.

Miami International is southern Florida’s primary source for long-haul international flights and the hub for the southeastern United States. It’s one of eight U.S. flight centers scheduling flights on an Airbus A380 jumbo jet.

In 2016, the airport served almost 45 million passengers, making it the 10th busiest hub in the United States and Florida’s busiest airport. Miami International handles more worldwide cargo than any other airport in the United States.

You can park in one of three parking lots. Short-term parking is best in the lot in front of Concourse E. Two parking garages, called the Dolphin and Flamingo Garages, rest inside the curvature along the Central Terminal’s interior. They connect via walkways on Level 3 at the west ends.

The single terminal is divided into three parts: The North Terminal (Blue), Central Terminal (Yellow), and South Terminal (Red). Fliers travel between terminals via the MIA mover, a people moving system.

The North Terminal houses Concourse D and connects to Concourse E at the immigration and customs hall. This allows international arrivals in this concourse. Concourse D includes 51 gates and one bus station. There are two Admirals Clubs operated by American Airlines at Gates D30 and D15. Concourse D has many shops like NewsLink, StarFire Design, and Maru and Friends. Luxury shopping options like Michael Kors, Ocean Drive – Prive Gourmet, and Calvin Klein are also present. Dining options include FRIDAYS, La Carreta, My Ceviche, Sushi Maki, and The Clover Irish Pub.

Concourse F offers one bus station and has 19 gates. On Level 1, you’ll find cruise line counters and baggage claim. Concourse F has TSA checkpoints on Level 3 only, so you’ll have to pass through security and go back down to Level 2 to board. This concourse serves international and domestic fliers. There are many dining and shopping options, including a brewhouse, a cafe, and small shops.

Concourse G is home to one bus station and 15 gates. No international flights come into this concourse, but some depart from it. You’ll find shopping and dining in this area as well that includes Au Bon Pain, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Ron Jon Surf Shops.

The South Terminal contains Concourses H and J. Concourse H has 13 gates and a bus station, and Concourse J has 15 gates plus a bus station. Both hold dining options like Quiznos and Jamba Juice as well as shopping choices, including MAC, Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger, and Victoria’s Secret.

American Airlines offers the most destinations from Miami International. With over 12 dozen international and domestic cities served, it’s easy to find a flight. Over 70 airlines ferry passengers to and from Miami International to cities across the globe. The most popular domestic flights connect with New York City, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and Los Angeles. International connections, like London, Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Mexico City, and Lima, make up the top global flights for 10 percent of the airport’s passengers.

To leave Miami International, you have several options outside of taking the bus from one of the concourses. The MIA Mover can bring you to a station for the city’s commuter rail system, Tri-Rail, or to the Amtrak station. Hitch a ride on the Metrorail Orange Line for a quick trip to almost anywhere in the metro area. To get to Miami Beach, hop on the Miami-Dade Transit Airport Flyer Bus. You can also take a cab or use your hotel’s shuttle, if available.

Flagler Monument Island.

Hotels Near Miami International Airport

There’s a plethora of hotels surrounding the airport ranging from budget-friendly rooms to luxurious hotels. For affordable lodging just a short drive from the airport, check out the Palacio Inn Motel. Getting there is simple courtesy of the hotel’s airport shuttle that runs around the clock. The shuttle also carries guests to cruise ship terminals. Bright retro decor adorns the hotel’s one or two-bedroom suites. Each suite has updated bathrooms with fluffy towels, a walk-in closet, and a table with two chairs. Stay entertained with free Wi-Fi and cable channels. Allow the staff to book a shopping excursion or event tickets for you.

For more budget-friendly rooms, consider Hialeah Motel. This upbeat hotel offers regular and Jacuzzi suites as well as themed rooms. You can book rooms for as little as three hours for a nap or stay long term. Themed rooms boast lush plants and rock formations that leave you feeling like you’re in the middle of the jungle. With circular beds, Jacuzzi tubs, and aquariums, you’ll have a stay like none other. Enjoy secluded parking with direct access to your room, wine and beer delivered via room service, and a bubble bath in a heart-shaped tub.

Traveling on business? The Sheraton Miami Airport Hotel & Executive Meeting Center is perfect for work trips. Rooms range from single king beds to Presidential Suites. Some boast views of the nearby golf course. Stay on top of your projects with the high-speed internet, oversized desk, and ergonomic Herman Miller chair. Rent a laptop or use one of the nine free workstations in the business center. The 24-hour staff will gladly fax, print, copy, or mail packages. Work up a sweat in the fitness center before a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool. Upgrade to a Club Level room and enjoy more perks including access to the lounge where you’ll indulge in free breakfast, afternoon appetizers, and free beverages.

At the Holiday Inn Express Miami-Airport, you’ll enjoy simple rooms and lots of amenities including free shuttle service from the airport. Relax on the plush beds while watching an HBO movie on the 32-inch TV. Post your vacation pictures on social media via free Wi-Fi. Family trips are easier with the hotel’s adjoining rooms. Kids under 12 eat free any time at the on-site restaurant and those under 19 stay free in a parent’s room. Start each day right with an expansive, free breakfast that includes made-to-order pancakes, pastries, fresh fruit, eggs, and the chain’s signature cinnamon rolls. Order in meals from nearby restaurants for in-room dining.

For ultimate convenience, stay in the Miami International Hotel, which is directly connected to the airport. Day stays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. are available for a discounted rate. Rooms vary from a twin-single to a junior suite. All rooms feature premium bedding and soundproof windows for a better night’s sleep. Stay up to date with free Wi-Fi and news on satellite channels. The hotel’s conference room options include single rooms for 40 people up to a large room that holds 250. You’ll have easy access to ticketing, baggage claim, and duty-free shops and restaurants.

South Beach.

Other Miami Area Airports

Miami Executive Airport lies 13 miles from downtown Miami and is a reliever airport for Miami International. It serves as a port of entry with U.S. Customs agents on hand. In recent years, it’s become a popular corporate aviation center. This airport is the main base for the police department and home to the Tamiami Composite Squadron, a Civil Air Patrol squadron.

Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport is another reliever airport and point of entry with customs agents on hand. Four airlines operate from here consistently, and the Coast Guard Air Station Miami is based here. DayJet offers on-demand flights to 44 airports across the country.

No matter which Miami Beach area airport you’re flying into, make the most of your getaway with help from GoDoTrip. Search our site for more information on the great things that make this area one-of-a-kind.

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